Vegetarian Meals

So I've been on a theme-posting kick lately.  This week I wanted to bring you two articles I have on cooking vegetarian/vegan and why you might consider eating vegetarian or vegan.  I also wanted to provide a list of meatless meals so if you are vegetarian and looking for some recipes or looking to reduce your consumption of meat/animal products and want some ideas, this list of recipes and links to resources is for you.  October 1st was World Vegetarian Day, which also kicks off Vegetarian Awareness Month, I'm glad I thought to do this post in October.  :)

Why Vegetarian?
Basics of Vegetarian Cooking

Banana Muffins- A vegan muffin that is moist and delicious.  Sometimes when I make these I use brown sugar instead of regular white sugar.

Tortellini, Tomato and Spinach Soup- A hearty meatless soup that you can pack with nutrient rich veggies.  Try using whole wheat pasta that has more protein as well as other green veggies like broccoli and kale.

Sweet Potato and Black Bean Enchiladas - This is a great recipe, you can make your own green sauce as written in the recipe or look for a green sauce made without chicken broth and added preservatives.  I also suggest doubling this recipe as it only makes 8 as written.

Vegan Crockpot Lasagna- A rich and hearty lasagna you can easily have on a busy weeknight because you made it in the crockpot.

Healthy Bean Soup with Kale- Good fiber, good green kale and protein in this hearty soup.

10 Minute Tasty Asparagus and Brown Rice- This is an excellent side dish, but it can also be a filling main dish served with a salad or a saute of veggies.

Brown Rice Salad with Spinach and Tomatoes- Another great side dish, but also a good option if you need some meatless options for a dinner or potluck.

Three Bean Salad with Quinoa-A great dish packed with protein and fiber.

Ravioli and Vegetable Soup- A good hearty soup.  Try to use a whole wheat pasta to add more protein.

Summer Squash and White Bean Sauté- This summer dish can be tossed w/ pasta or served over rice or quinoa.

Bulgar Taco Salad with Cilantro and Lime- Bulgar makes this a hearty meatless salad that is a great complete meal with good sources of protein plus fiber and iron.  

Veggie Tacos- This recipe is so adaptable.  Use whatever fresh vegetables you like then just follow the instructions for seasoning and preparing the tortillas.

Roasted Fall Vegetable and Ricotta Pizza- A hearty meatless pizza with great roasted vegetables like butternut squash, potatoes, carrots and plenty of garlic.

Butternut Squash and Macaroni Casserole- Delicious meatless fall casserole that uses coconut milk instead of any heavy cream or cheese. 

Butternut Squash and Sage Lasagna- The combination of sage and butternut squash are so good!  Definitely use fresh or cooked store-bought noodles, don’t use the no-boil noodles with this recipe.  Cut your prep time with using pre-cut squash. 

A few websites with good vegetarian recipes
101 Cookbooks
Oh She Glows
Fat Free Vegan
Skinny Taste